2027 Unit information is now available. View 2027 unit information
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Introduction
In this Unit, you will develop the skills and knowledge needed to respond to communicable disease outbreaks and other public health incidents. You will follow the ten steps of outbreak investigation using real-life outbreak examples and complete authentic assessment tasks that mirror those undertaken by public health professionals during outbreak investigations. This includes analysing public health intelligence and applying risk assessment frameworks to identify and confirm potential outbreaks, and integrating epidemiological, environmental, and laboratory evidence to determine the source of an outbreak and to guide control measures. You will also learn to apply risk communication principles to effectively engage with relevant stakeholders during outbreak investigations.
Summary
| Unit name | Outbreak Management |
| Unit code | CAM637 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Health School of Medicine |
| Discipline | Medicine |
| Coordinator | Ms Michelle McPherson |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Postgraduate |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Semester 1 |
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- Key:
On-campus
Off-Campus
International students
Domestic students
Note
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Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 22/2/2026 | 16/3/2026 | 19/4/2026 | 13/6/2026 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Utilise a risk assessment framework to verify the existence of an outbreak.
- Plan an outbreak investigation.
- Apply appropriate methods for the epidemiological, environmental and laboratory components of an outbreak investigation.
- Synthesize all evidence gathered during an outbreak investigation to determine the source of the outbreak.
- Communicate to relevant stakeholders using risk communication principles and appropriate documentation.
Fee Information
| Field of Education | Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 | Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 | Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 | Domestic Full Fee 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 061399 | $1,192.00 | $1,192.00 | not applicable | $3,069.00 |
- Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
- HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility3
- FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility4
1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.
If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.
Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | Independent Learning 8 hours weekly; Tutorial (Online) 1.5 hours (5 times) |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Outbreak Investigation Tasks (20%)|Outbreak scenario 1 (40%)|Outbreak scenario 2 (40%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings and other resources will be provided through MyLO. |
|---|---|
| Recommended | You can access the reading list for this unit from the link in MyLO or by going directly to the reading lists page on the University Library website. |
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.